Canadian Simmental Country by Today's Publishing Inc.

N ove mbe r /De c e mbe r 2 0 1 5 Si mme ntal Countr y

November/December 2015

In This Issue:

A Beneficial Alliance Simmental Show Results YCSA Summit Leadership Report

MOST CONSISTENT, EVEN DRY-DOWN.

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Bruce Holmquist General Manager Cell: 403-988-8676 bholmquist@simmental.com

Barb Judd Office Manager Phone: 403-250-7979 bjudd@simmental.com

VOLUME 36, NUMBER 5

#13, 4101 19th St. N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 Phone: 403-250-5255 Fax: 403-250-5121 Website: www.simmentalcountry.com Canadian Simmental Country Deadlines February 2016 “Herd Sire” Issue March/April/May “Spring 2016” Issue “Queens of the Pasture” 2016 Issue October 2016 Issue November/December Winter 2016 Issue Commercial Country Deadlines January 2016 Issue September 2016 Issue

Meghan Black Industry & Member Services Representative Cell: 506-324-4825 mblack@simmental.com

Jane Crawford Eastern Sales Consultant Phone: 519-287-5286 Cell: 519-317-5263 jane.cattle@gmail.com

Carla Schmitt Programs Coordinator Phone 306-221-7950 cschmitt@simmental.com

Jane Crawford Eastern Sales Consultant

Material Deadline: January 1, 2016 Material Deadline: April 1, 2016 Material Deadline: July 1, 2016 Material Deadline: September 1, 2016 Material Deadline: October 1, 2016 Material Deadline: December 1, 2015 Material Deadline: August 1, 2016

Mailing Dates - Each issue will be mailed on or about the first of the month. Simmental Country, mailed as second class, assumes no responsibility for actual receipt date. Production & Ad Copy Changes – Special production requests and ad copy changes may be subject to extra charges. Charges will apply on an individual basis. Layouts & Proofs - Requests for special layouts should be in the Simmental Country office by the 21st day of the second month preceding publication. Although every effort will be made to provide proofs on all ads, proofs are guaranteed only if all ad material arrives in the Country office prior to deadline. Advertising Content - The Simmental Country assumes no responsibility for the accuracy and truthfulness of submitted advertising copy or electronically supplied pictures and has the right to refuse any ad copy or photos. Advertisers shall indemnify and hold harmless the Country containing pedigrees or statements regarding performance must conform to records kept by the Canadian Simmental Association. Copy deviating from official records may be changed as necessary without advertiser consent. Editorial Policy - Articles and information in this magazine represent the opinions of the writers and the information that, to the best of our knowledge, was accurate at the time of writing. Users of any information contained in Simmental Country are encouraged to validate that information by independent means. Subscription Rates Canada $40 + applicable taxes per year $75 + applicable taxes for two years (GST included) Published for: Canadian Simmental Association #13 , 4101 - 19th Street N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 Phone: 403-250-7979 Fax: 403-250-5121 Published by:

Cover Courtesy of

The official publication of the Canadian Simmental Association

AB, SK, MB, QC add 5 per cent to all fees for GST BC add 12 per cent to all fees for HST ON, NB, NFLD add 13 per cent to all fees for HST NS add 15 per cent to all fees for HST 4-3342 Millar Avenue Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7K 7G9 Office: 306-934-9696 Fax: 306-934-0744 www.todayspublishing.com Editor: Bryan Kostiuk Marketing: Chris Poley, Shane Michelson & Ted Serhienko Accounting: Treena Ballantyne, Carla Hamm & Mina Serhienko Circulation: Debbie Thiessen Production: Tiffany Peters, Shyann Westby, Janessa McKay & Samantha Rimke

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Please Return Undeliverable Copies To: Canadian Simmental Association #13 , 4101 - 19th Street N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 Phone: 403-250-7979 Fax: 403-250-5121 Publication Mail Agreement #40012794 © 2015 Simmental Country (1997) Ltd. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the Canadian Simmental Association.

Lloydminster Agricultural Grounds Lloydminster, SK

4-SIMMENTAL FOCUS

On Offer:  90 bred heifers  30 bred cows

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From the Gate Post

Bruce Holmquist General Manager - Canadian Simmental Association

The Canadian National Simmental Show A Showcase for the Breed

ugust to October of this year was an exciting time for many Canadians as the Toronto Blue Jays captured our interest and imagination from coast to coast, and for many it provided a welcome alternative to the news coverage from the Federal election. For the first time in 22 years the Jays were in the hunt for the American League East pennant and were then in the playoffs. For many of you that are users of social media, and especially Twitter followers, the hashtag #cometogether was used to symbolize Canadians lending their support for something that united us in a common interest. Another source of excitement for many Simmental breeders has been the early fall Simmental sales and the Canadian National Simmental show hosted by the Quebec Simmental Association in Victoriaville, Quebec on October 10th during Expo Boeuf. Approximately 150 head of Simmental cattle were on display at the first Canadian National Simmental show to ever be held in Quebec and it was truly impressive to see the quality and selection of Simmentals that represented all genres of what the Simmental breed has to offer. Cattle were displayed from Quebec, Ontario and the Maritimes and there were also cattle that had been purchased from herds throughout Western Canada that added to the National scope of the event. While walking through the barns it was easy to see the hype and enthusiasm in the Simmental alleys and the pride that the exhibitors had in their cattle. What was also very noticeable was the young age of many of the Simmental exhibitors which is an indicator of the confidence that many have in Simmental and the bright

future the breed has. While some people at times may question the value of the show-ring, there is no doubt that for many breeders it still is an integral part of their marketing programs; and at the same time it is an opportunity to showcase Simmental in an environment that stimulates young cattle enthusiasts towards positive involvement in Agriculture as well as interest in Simmental cattle. Many people viewing the show commented on the strength of many of the classes, and the quality of the Simmental Champions was reaffirmed the next day when the all breeds Supreme Champions were chosen by the panel of judges. Never before has Simmental dominated a Supreme event as it did at Expo Boeuf with the Supreme Champion pair of bulls, Supreme Champion and Reserve females as well as Reserve Supreme Champion Bull all being Simmental! It was a day that both exhibitors and spectators will long remember. The extremely positive Simmental bull and female sales held this year, along with very successful and well supported events such as the Canadian Simmental Convention and National Young Canadian Simmental show, and now the National Simmental Show, are all indicators of Simmental being seen as a cattle breed of opportunity and progression. Simmental breeders have #cometogether to promote and advance the breed to new levels, and we will enjoy new successes in 2016 by working together on setting the bar even higher. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a healthy, prosperous and happy New Year!

December 22, 2015 Spring Creek Ranch Near Moosomin, SK

Red and Black Simmental cows and bred heifers Black Angus cows and bred heifers - Sim/Angus bred heifers

MBJ 17B

MBJ 27T

MBJ 31W

MBJ 39T

MBJ 53W

MBJ 59W

MBJ 45B

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MONDAY FEBRUARY

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Olds Cow Palace :: Olds, AB

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WADE HANNAH 403.994.4190 DIDSBURY, AB T0M 0W0 INFO@HANNAHSIMMENTALS.COM

www.hannahsimmentals.com 14

M & R CATTLE CO.

MIKE & ROBERTA CHAMBERS AND FAMILY 403.507.3135 BOX 654 WIMBORNE, AB T0M 2G0 MIKE.CHAMBERS@APEXDISTRIBUTION.COM

www.mandrcattle.com

Breed Improvement An Update on Emerging Practices in Animal Breeding

or producers, genomics technology can increase production efficiency and competitiveness by providing information for selecting animals with improved growth, decreased feed intake, improved health, fertility and carcass quality, as well as decreased management cost. Indeed, in the presence of traditional measures of genetic merit such as EPDs, this is also possible, but genomics increases the accuracy with which we can predict these measures of genetic merit. Genetic progress is cumulative and permanent when used appropriately in a breeding program – meaning benefits will grow each year. With a decrease in genotyping costs, genomic selection is gaining popularity, and as a result the size of “phenotype/ genotype database” is expanding, making genomic selection more applicable to Simmental cattle breeders. At the industry level, genomics will enhance competitiveness by ensuring that safe and healthy meat is delivered to consumers. Genomics can increase accuracy in selecting for animals that are naturally more docile, easy gaining, resistant to disease, and low methane emitters. These qualities, along with the ability to provide foolproof traceability for beef products, amount to an amazing opportunity to provide consumers with quality, safe, and nutritious beef products that have been produced in a sustainable manner. Breeding As previously mentioned, adding genotypic information (whether the density be 50k, LD or HD) to a genetic evaluation significantly increases the accuracy and value of EPD’s for better breeding animal selection; these are genomically enhanced EPDs (GE-EPDs). In the absence of a routine genetic evaluation being available, genotype only breeding values, called molecular breeding values (MBVs, terminology may differ), can be generated in order to rank animals on genetic merit for a whole suite of traits. Earlier this year, the Canadian Simmental Association has implemented that all Sires and donor dams must receive a 50K panel. This step is in order to continually grow the database of Simmental genotypic which further refines the accuracy of predictions in the upcoming generations of animals in parallel with the initial genotyping of an animal allowing a GE-EPD to be generated at a young age. Other available DNA tests can also detect genetic defects that are present in certain population of animals. Carcass Quality There are two current initiatives that spring to mind being pursued in the space of carcass quality. Firstly, researchers at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research station in Lacombe, Alberta are currently developing an alternative to complete carcass dissection for meat grading. The technology being tested uses dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) to scan the carcass and give information on the rib eye and fat cover with less invasive

Amber Dobson1, Dawn Trautman1 & John Crowley1,2 1 Livestock Gentec, University of Alberta - 2 Canadian Beef Breeds Council

methods that may also be cheaper and more time effective. The system will develop algorithms based on research cattle that will then be validated using carcasses from commercial packing plants. When it comes to applying this to this to improving carcass quality, these new measure can be used in developing better data to feed into our genetic and genomic evaluations. Such research goals as this can be complimented by a second interesting initiative; the Canadian Meat Education and Training Network (MEaTnet). Formed in 2014, MEaTnet is an NSERC funded partnership between the University of Alberta, Université Laval, University of Saskatchewan, and University of Guelph. The aim of MEaTnet is to produce 50 masters and doctoral graduates in six years who have professional management skills, research experience, and the technical background essential for understanding and improving the meat industry. The increasing number of meat eaters is not a myth as future global demand for protein is projected to double and by being proactive in adopting innovative practices, beef producers can be in a good position to meet this demand. By training highly qualified personnel the Canadian beef industry stands to be a force in the global meat business. Canadian Simmental breeders have an opportunity in this to capitalize on the branding of quality beef in securing a position in the global market. Production Efficiency Lately, the use of growth promotants and hormones in beef production is gathering much media and consumer attention. This presents a challenge for Canadian producers as they try to balance the efficiencies (less feed per pound of meat produced) arising from the use of growth promotants versus consumer demands and attitudes. Perhaps one of the solutions to this problem is to use genetics for growth that would negate the need to use an implant. If we can identify animals (e.g. using GE-EPDs) for superior carcass traits, feed efficiency, and high growth rate, we may be able to breed in the same effect as a growth promotant, simply by using the right bulls. The issues facing the beef industry are complex and something that is able to distil clarity from the noise is embracing technology. Investments should pay dividends and genomics technology has proven its ability to drive productivity and profitability in other sectors, such as dairy. So, “where’s the beef?” It’s here, in our own pastures; it’s new solutions to old problems, it’s Canadian, it’s collaborative, and it’s changing the industry. Now is the time to commit to innovate practices and use the technologies available to us to create solutions for combating environmental challenges, fighting disease, and ensuring a nutritional food supply. What data and samples collected today will affect the next generation. We need to think of all the traits that will be useful for the future generations of cattle owners and hungry mouths worldwide and stay that one step ahead. 15

From the Director’s Chair

What Better Choice than Simmental Dan Skeels – Canadian Simmental Association Director

irstly, I’d like to thank those that participated in voting at the CSA Convention and electing me onto the CSA Board of Directors. I am excited to be a part of the YCS and Promotion committees; two areas I am extremely passionate about. I hope to bring forward new and exciting ideas to the board, to allow growth for our breed in the future. In this article I want to address a few of the strengths I see within the Simmental breed. As a Commercial and Purebred Livestock Auctioneer I truly appreciate good cattle of every breed; yet it’s no secret that if you cut me, I bleed Simmental. There is no greater joy for me at the sale barn than selling a ring full of top end, Simmental steers. It’s my rush. When you consider the volume of bulls we sell as a breed, for the dollars we sell them for, it’s something special. We’ve seen many steer calves this fall trade between $1,800 to $2,100 plus, right off the cow. The good majority of those steers were big, powerful, Simmental calves. We need to continue to provide a superior product that supplies the commercial cattleman tthe biggest reward for their investments. I know it’s tempting to add more bulls to the pen, especially after last spring’s tremendous bull sale season, but if you do so, I encourage you to do it in moderation. Don’t just add numbers, add quality. Grow your market, service your product, and know your clientele’s needs. A common misbelief is that a cull pen is bad. There is no shame in having a cull pen, it simply shows your commitment to the breed, and your desire to produce simply the best. Another strength that we have going for us in the Simmental breed is our youth. I am truly excited as a new director to be involved with the YCS program. Let’s face it, as a breed our future lies in the hands of our up and coming breeders. It was extremely rewarding to see the hard work and effort put forward by the entire YCS at this year’s National event in Lindsay, Ontario. A huge turnout, professionally ran, with representation from almost every province. I also appreciate the diversity in the barn, and the comradery of the participants. From what I’ve seen at the National and the Alberta Wild Rose Classic events, you can’t help but realize how strong of position we are in with our up and coming youth. I really feel it is important as a breed to support our youth, offer guidance, but also let them find their way. Support can come in so many different ways, whether it be as a sponsor, to offer guidance and mentorship, or sitting in the sidelines cheering these young adults on. It is something we all can do, and is important for the continued growth of our breed. A great tool we have available to us is our breed magazine, so take advantage of it. You’ve taken the time to invest in the genetics, the time and commitment to develop your cattle and feed them properly, so letting people know you’re in business only seems logical. Advertising is a balancing act. How much is too much, how much is too little? It’s really tough to place a true, hard fast

value on it, and it all has to be justifiable for your operation. The biggest thing to remember is that whatever you put out there is the first impression that potential buyer has. Take the time and make the effort to do it right. Regardless if it’s a full page or a business card ad, that is an investment in “your” breed magazine. Just think about how cost effective a simple business card is. When I travel, the majority of the time there is a Simmental Country with me. Do you know how often that business card section is my phone book? Trust me, that alone will be one of the best investments you will ever make. As I said, if people don’t know you’re in business, they aren’t going to call. I can’t stress enough that the Simmental Country is “our” magazine. Compared to many other publications, it is extremely cost effective, and I am personally a firm believer in the fact that you can see the strength of a breed based on its publication. As a director sitting on the promotion committee, I would personally like to see us, as a breed take things another step further. We need our name out there to be recognized by the consumer, so that when they think about what to purchase in the meat section they think about beef; and not just any beef, but Simmental beef. We need to focus on promoting the benefits of beef in our diet, and that it is produced the most ethically and humanly as possible. I know that may seem a little out there for some, but let’s face facts, that we are dealing with a growing population that needs to be educated about our industry, and that’s something not being taught in our schools today. Today’s consumer is willing to pay for a quality product that is raised in a natural environment and produced ethically. So what better choice than Simmental? They are a breed that can be produced virtually in any climate, they are extremely hardy, and early maturing. All factors that contribute to what today’s consumer is looking for. There are people that don’t know the front end of a cow from the back, but look for a product that fits their standards. We need to get out there, have Simmental in the face of the consumer, and let them know we do meet their criteria. Promote the value and the health benefits of our product. Give that consumer that goes to the store a reason to buy Simmental beef. If you build it, they will come. I know there are many other factors that contribute to the success of our great breed, but these are a few thoughts I wanted to share. We are seeing another tremendous fall run in both the Purebred and Commercial industries. As Simmental breeders, I can’t help but think how fortunate we are. We have a huge demand based on diversity, in not only what we can produce, but where it can be produced. As a director I can’t stress enough that if you have thoughts or concerns that need to be voiced, contact one of the CSA directors. We are the voice of the membership and you won’t be heard if you don’t tell us. I wish you continued success with your programs, and all the best in the future.

St ar

Ro ck

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FIRST Hammer

Son to sell in Canada

SELLING November 25 at the Agribition Simmental Sale * Explosive New Genetics * 82 lb Birth Weight * Explosive BW to WW Spread * Highly Productive 2 Yr Dam

Dakota Townsend * Sylvan Lake, AB * (403) 505-8450 21

Women in Simmental Country

Family and farm creates a great life combination

enise Lafrentz says that the last 20-some years has mostly revolved around “kids and cattle”, and oh, yes let’s not forget about husband Vern. She then adds that raising a family and Simmental cattle on their southern Saskatchewan farm has been a great way of life.

Denise and Vern, own and operate Wheatland Cattle Co, near Bienfait, Saskatchewan, southeast of Estevan. She admits there were some very busy days trying to juggle a home, raising two boys, and managing a growing herd of purebred and commercial cattle. At the time “you never really thought about it, you just did it. I look back now and think ‘wow, how did I do that and where did I find the energy” says Lafrentz. “We’ve always set goals for what we want to achieve on the farm, and we’ve always been passionate about the beef industry, so I never really thought about the time it took, and the hours that we put in, it was just what we needed to do, to get where we wanted to go.” Denise and Vern have built Wheatland Cattle Co. over the past 18 years. Denise grew up on a mixed farming operation near Weyburn, Saskatchewan. She later attended the University of Saskatchewan, met Vern at a beef show in Estevan, and they married 22 years ago. They farmed with his parents, who owned Wheatland Simmentals, just east of Bienfait for a few years before buying a half section of land along the Souris River, where they have developed their own purebred Simmental operation. “When we started here, we really started from scratch,” says Denise. “It was a beautiful place, with nice scenery along the river valley, but there really wasn’t much else.” They started with about 30 head of cattle, only 10-head were “papered” and they have grown the operation from there. “Vern’s family had been involved with purebred Simmental for many years,” says Denise. “When we started out we saw the opportunity to redesign and breed cattle that were commercially acceptable and our goal remains the same today.”

Denise Lafrentz, Wheatland Cattle Co.

PUREBRED AND PERCENTAGE CATTLE

By Lee Hart

Today Wheatland Cattle Co. runs about 180 head. About half are purebred red and black Simmental, while the other half are percentage or commercial Simmental/Angus cross-cattle. Denise has been knee-deep in the beef industry as long as she can remember. Her family raised beef cattle and was always involved in 4-H. When she was little, the family took cattle to a finished-steer show. Denise has been going to some type of beef show since before she was in kindergarten. While it is a team effort at Wheatland Cattle Co., Denise has been a pivotal player in all aspects of the home and farm since day one. As they were building the beef herd, Vern worked off farm for many years working for a local mining operation. It has only been about the last four years that he has been full time on the farm.

Along with the farm, Denise and Vern also raised two sons. Riley, 20, who is studying Animal Science at Kansas State University, while Cody-Ray, 19, is at college in Hutchinson, Kansas. Both young men are attending school on livestock judging scholarships. Along with regular studies they are both actively involved in livestock judging competitions across the U.S. Denise is hands-on in all aspects of the farming operation. The cowherd begins calving in late January, meaning regular ‘round the clock’ checks of the herd. As facilities have improved over the years, so has the schedule. “When we were starting out we really didn’t have many buildings so cows would be calving around windbreaks and then we’d take the toboggan

harvest embryos and then we would flush the daughters of that cow and harvest those embryos; that is how we built the herd. We have used some line breeding as well to further maintain the pedigree. “The objective has been to carry the genetics throughout the herd. We haven’t made any major swings in our breeding program one way or another. If you look at cattle we had 10 or 15 years ago and cattle we have today they look very similar — just very good, productive cattle that are commercially acceptable to the cow-calf producer, while at the same time you could also put a show halter on them.” Denise recalls an excellent black bull Wheatland 131L (nicknamed Teddy) and a female Wheatland 902J, a 16-year-old cow that is still in the herd — these two Simmentals were really the start of the purebred herd they have today.

and bring the new calves back to a shed to be warmed up,” she says. “Then we did upgrade to a building were we could keep While the Lafrentzs are proud of their cattle, they limit the beef a few cows along with some machinery, but it didn’t have shows they attend to the annual Canadian Western Agribition much room. In 2014 we built a new calving barn where we in Regina in November. They’ve been attending the show with can hold 60 head at a time. When facilities weren’t as good, a string of cattle since 1993 and were among the first to show we’d take turns checking the cows about every hour, now we red and black Simmental cattle. In past years Denise has been go out every three hours or so. It is a lot easier on everyone. “ a regular at Agribition for all 10 days, the boys would come and help out for at least part of the time, and Vern attended as his MARCH SALE DAY work schedule allowed. Along with calving being in full swing February through to about mid-March, the Lafrentzs are at the same time getting organized for their Annual Bull Sale, usually held the last Thursday of March. They’ve been holding a bull sale since 1995. The herd was smaller in the mid ‘90s, and they weren’t sure about starting a sale, but friends, Karl and Karen Lischka of ANL Herefords at Steelman, Saskatchewan urged them to give it a try. For many years they ran a joint sale day with ANL Herefords at the sale barn at Alameda, although that changed this past year. “We undertook a major project in 2014,” says Denise. “We built a new show and sale barn as well as a new calving barn. We started the project in the fall of 2014 and the new sale barn was ready for sale day…just barely, but it was ready. This past March was the first year we had our own sale at the farm.’” Wheatland Cattle Co. markets between 35 and 40 bulls annually. Most are purebred red and black Simmental, although they also sell a few percentage animals, as well. The focus has been on building the beef herd around the strength of primarily two cow families. “We found animals with the particular traits and quality that we liked and we have basically built from there,” says Denise. “We flushed the cow to

She says fitting and showing as many as a dozen head at Agribition has been a tremendous experience. She’s also proud of the fact several times over the years they received Premier Breeder and Premier Exhibitor honors. They also showed cattle at the World Simmental Congress in Calgary in 2006, that year winning World Champion Bull and Reserve Champion Cow honors. The same bull, later that year was also named Supreme Champion Bull at Agribition in Regina. 23

“We’re proud of our Future plans for Wheatland Cattle Co. include ongoing cattle, but the real upgrades to facilities — “Vern is pretty fussy” — as well as joy of this industry improving the quality of the cattle and measured growth in herd is the great people numbers. “We have a program that is working well for us now, so you meet and the we will continue with that,” says Denise. One new pilot project real friendships you is testing out the potential of fall calving. They have 10 head of develop,” says Denise. females that are calving this fall. “We’re just trying this to see “That’s one of the how it works for us and see how it fits in our program,” she says. great things about “Bulls from these cows will be a little older by the time they are attending Agribition ready for sale, so we’ll see what the buyers think.” every year is meeting With her prime focus over the years being family and farm, with friends and Denise says it can be a “24/7, 365 commitment” which hasn’t getting caught up.” given her much time for outside interests. She has in the past Denise says the year been involved with the Cattlemen’s Young Leaders Program, farm has been an open to both young men and women in the beef industry, excellent environment for raising a family. She says it wasn’t which partners a young producer with an experienced mentor. always easy raising two little ones and fitting farm chores in Denise has been working with Shari Leachman, who along around their needs but it all worked. “Maybe they missed out on with her husband farm near Maidstone, Saskatchewan. “It is an some things, but the boys have been raised around cattle and they excellent program that allows me to share my experience with love the industry too,” she says. “Being involved in 4-H has helped someone else,” says Denise. “Shari and I have visited regularly them develop into fine young men. It also led to opportunities to and “bounced” different ideas around as she looks to develop obtain scholarships for their education. And now being involved her role as young farm woman in the livestock industry. I would in judging competitions helps develop their character, gives encourage all youth to take advantage of the program.”

them great experience, creates this whole network of people and friends, and really as far as future opportunities are concerned, the sky’s the limit. They have expressed interest in coming back to farm, which would be great, but they may chose some other career path, and they will have plenty of options.” She says she and Vern do miss those extra pairs of hands around the farm, but they’re managing.

Denise welcomes the opportunity to share her experience with others about a life and industry that has been so rewarding for her. “I guess if you love what you do, it really isn’t work,” she says. “Really there has been a lot of blood, sweat and tears go into this farm, but being passionate about something is what is important. I have been at this quite a few years, but it still moves me when we have a newborn calf, that finally struggles to its feet for the first time, and they look at you — this business is really in your blood.”

FGAF 182B

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From the Field

Meghan Black CSA Industry & Member Service Representative

From the Field

all is hands down my favorite time of year. Weaning calves, bringing cows home from pasture, preparing for winter calving, the change of the colors of the leaves are all things this East coast girl will always be a big fan of. With fall also comes female sales and fall shows; the opportunity to network, visit with old friends and new, and see the Simmental breed dominate in the sale ring and show ring.

Manager, Bruce Holmquist attended representing the CSA but you can bet I spent my Thanksgiving watching this event online. Following Thanksgiving I attended the 6th Annual Livestock Gentec Conference in Edmonton, Alberta. The CSA is proud to sponsor this event and take part in discussion directed around new ideas and developments that are geared towards genetic improvement in the livestock industry.

My summer with the Canadian Simmental Association (CSA) was a busy one. I was able to represent the CSA at a number of conferences, shows, and events. Summer was rounded off in attending the CSA National Convention and YCS National Classic in Lindsay, Ontario. Hats off to all of those involved – sponsors, coordinators, judges, and Juniors for a job well done. Having been a Junior member of several different Breed Associations myself, I have a strong appreciation to all aspects involved in this National event. The long hours of not only lining up sponsors, organizing showmanship classes and prizes, but also in the barn working on cattle and preparing for the non-livestock competitions as well. I was very impressed by the 89 young Simmental enthusiasts from across the country that participated in this year’s National Classic!

When looking at my calendar for the remainder of the year I’m excited to put on the miles that I will to get out there and attend a number of events. Congratulations to those that have had success already at their sales, fall shows, and in marketing your feeder calves. To those that are preparing for the later fall shows and sales that will round off the year I wish you the best of luck and I am thoroughly looking forward to attending many of these events myself. It’s an exciting time to be a part of the beef industry and with that, the Simmental breed. Next year’s bull sale season will be here before we know it and I encourage those of you selling bulls to get in contact with me or Jane Crawford about advertising opportunities available through Simmental Country. I look forward to visiting with many of you through this fall and winter season.

It’s hard to believe we’re already nearing the end of October. I started the fall events off at Olds Fall Classic Until next time! where I had the privilege to announce the Simmental Show. Congratulations to breeders that participated and those who qualified to the Supreme Shows at Farmfair and Canadian Western Agribition.This year the National Simmental Show took place at Expo Boeuf in Victoriaville, Quebec. CSA General

MRL 127Y (Heritage) X Nophault Bred KWA 28B (Red Mountain)

ACS Brick (680 grandson) X McSteamy Bred High Stakes

ACA Brick (680 grandson ) X Prairie Wind 19Y Bred to high selling Pokerface son DHS 18B

LRX 39A X Red Ace

Pokerface X IPU Red Touchdown

MRL 127Y (Heritage) X Wheatland Sevens Bred Vision

Thank You

for making Farmfair International a success year after year. Thank you to our Exhibitors, our Sponsors, Northlands, our Volunteers, and the ASA Board Members. We wish the Simmental Community a prosperous fall show and sale season! Look to our website for fall show and sale dates as well as location. Please join us at the 2016 Camrose Bull Congress, January 23rd & 24th.

Merry Christmas and Best Wishes for 2016! 131 Stonegate Cr. Airdrie, AB T4B 2S8

www.albertasimmental.com 37

SweepStake$ SSA Simmental Wednesday, november 25, 2015 Canadian Western agribition

Over

$30,000 in prize money and prizes!

:: Only cataloged Simmental Sale entries are eligible to be entered! :: Silver Memberships only $100! Includes... - a ballot to place your top 5 favorite lots! - $15, 000 in Sale Credits to the Agribition Sale - Secondary prizes drawn throughout the event!

SSA ScholArShip DonAtion heifer Agribition Simmental Show Schedule

Thank you... to Double Bar D Farms, Grenfell, SK for donating the 2015 Scholarship Heifer!

The heifer will be sold by Dutch auction just before the Agribition Simmental Sale

Wednesday, November 25, 2015 10:00 AM Simmental Show 5:00 PM Pizza 6:30 PM Draw for $15,000 in Sale Credits 6:45 PM Scholarship Heifer Auction 45th Annual Agribition 7:00 PM Simmental Sale

Friday, November 27, 2015 10:00 AM Commercial Cattle Show 3:30 PM Bull Pen Alley Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Saturday, November 28, 2014 10:00 AM Bull Pen Alley Show 12:00 PM Commercial Cattle Sale

Double Bar D Leni 451C Sire: NCB Cobra 47Y

MGS: MFI Foundation 7094

Saskatchewan Simmental Association

Box 591 Grenfell, SK S0G 2B0 (306) 697-2945 fax (306) 697-2942 email: sasksimmental@yourlink.ca

www.sasksimmental.com

President Everett Olson Box 1939 Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 Phone: 204-826-2643 Email: everettolson@mymts.net 1st Vice President Rick Dequier Box 1673, Carman, MB R0G 0J0 Phone: 204-771-0280 Email: rdequier@westmansteel.ca 2nd Vice President Andrea Bertholet Box 55, Car twright, MB R0K 0L0 Phone: 204-483-0319 Email: adber tholet@hotmail.com

2015 MSA Scholarship Heifer

Secretary/Treasurer Donalee Jones Box 142, Car twright, MB R0K 0L0 Phone/fax: 204-529-2444 Email: donalee@midcan.com MSA Directors Everett More Box 1754, Virden, MB R0M 2C0 Phone: 204-748-1225 Email: vahequine@yahoo.com Greg Woychyshyn Box 2035 Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 Phone: 204-865-2475 Email: crestviewcattleco@hotmail.com Tracey Wilcox Box 351, Treherne, MB R0G 2V0 Phone: 204-723-2386 Email: pwilcox@mymts.net Trevor Peters Box 385, Rivers, MB R0K 1X0 Phone: 204-328-7458 Email: trevor.peter s@canadamalting.com Gordon Delichte Box 26, St. Alphonse, MB R0K 1Z0 Phone: 204-836-2116 Email: g.delichte@gmail.com Tom Marchant Box 263, Arden, MB R0J 0B0 Phone: 204-841-2046 Email: tristarcattleco@gmail.com CSA Director Blair McRae RR1 Box 57 Brandon, MB R7A 5Y1 Phone: 204-728-3058 Email: marmac@inetlink.ca YCSA President Kolton McIntosh Box 84 Ericksdale, MB R0C 0W0 Phone: 204-280-0359 auction_mcintosh@hotmail.ca Pembina Triangle Rep Eric Theroux Box 215, Notre Dame De Lourdes, MB R0G 1M0 Phone: 204-526-7360 Email: eric.theroux@cpsagu.ca Keystone Association Rep Jennilee Bernier RR #2, Minnedosa, MB R0J 1E0 204-763-4580

Donated by the Pembina Triangle Simmental Association. The heifer will be purchased out of their Sale on November 14th! Tickets available from MSA board members. DRAW to be made at the Shades of the Prairies Sale December 14th.

UPCOMING FALL SALES

Check out our website for complete Sale Listings at...

www.mbsimmental.com 39

- Cancelled

Appuye sur le poteau de cloture

Par Bruce Holmquist Directeur général - Association Simmental du Canada

Le Concours National de la race Une vitrine de notre race.

ette année, la période du mois d’août à octobre fut très excitante pour tous les canadiens d’un océan à l’autre du pays, avec les succès des Blue Jays qui ont notamment permis de se changer les idées par rapport aux nouvelles quotidiennes touchant les élections fédérales. Rappelons que pour la première fois lors des vingt-deux dernières années, les Blue Jays étaient dans la course pour le championnat de la division Est de la Ligue américaine de baseball, puis ils se sont finalement qualifiés pour les séries mondiales. Tous les utilisateurs des médias sociaux, en particulier les abonnés à Twitter, ont utilisé le lien #cometogether afin de témoigner leur support à une cause commune à tous les canadiens. Les ventes de bovins Simmental et le Concours national de la race organisé le 10 octobre par l’Association Simmental du Québec lors de l’Expo Boeuf à Victoriaville au Québec ont constitué d’importantes sources de motivation pour plusieurs éleveurs Simmental. Environ cent cinquante sujets de race Simmental étaient présentés lors du premier Concours national de la race à se tenir au Québec, et ceux-là formaient un groupe très impressionnant, tant par la qualité des sujets que la diversité des types présentés. Les sujets en compétition provenaient du Québec, de l’Ontario et des Maritimes, et d’autres sujets présentés provenaient de troupeaux situés dans l’ouest du Canada, conférant ainsi une envergure nationale à cet évènement. En se promenant dans les étables, on pouvait facilement constater tout l’enthousiasme et l’excitation associés avec cet important concours, ainsi que toute la fierté démontrée par les exposants. Il était aussi très intéressant de constater la présence de plusieurs jeunes exposants Simmental, ce qui en soi est un beau

témoignage de la confiance envers la race et un gage de succès futur de la race. Bien que certains se questionnent parfois quant à l’utilité des expositions, pour plusieurs éleveurs Simmental, il ne fait aucuns doutes que cela fait partie intégrale de leurs activités de marketing. En même temps, cela constitue une belle vitrine pour montrer nos bovins Simmental, le tout dans un environnement stimulant l’intérêt de plusieurs jeunes passionnés de la race Simmental et impliqués activement en agriculture. Plusieurs spectateurs du concours national ont été impressionnés par la grande qualité et la profondeur de plusieurs des classes de jugement. De plus, la journée suivante, cette qualité fut reconfirmée lors de la sélection par un panel de juges des Championnats Suprêmes inter-races. Jamais auparavant une race n’avait dominé le Championnat Suprême comme le fit la race Simmental, remportant le Championnat Suprême pour la paire de taureaux, la Championne Suprême et la Championne Suprême de réserve, et le Champion Suprême de réserve. Tous les exposants et les spectateurs se rappelleront longtemps de cette journée. Les ventes de taureaux et de femelles extrêmement positives tenues plus tôt dans l’année 2015, ainsi que les succès obtenus lors de la Convention canadienne Simmental, du Concours national des jeunes éleveurs et du récent Concours national de la race sont tous des marques d’acceptabilité et de progrès de la race Simmental au Canada. Les éleveurs Simmental travaillent ensemble à la promotion et l’avancement de leur race vers de nouveaux sommets, et gageons que nous obtiendrons encore de grands succès en 2016, en travaillant ensemble à mettre la barre encore plus haute. Je vous souhaite un Joyeux Noël et la nouvelle année sous le signe de la santé, la prospérité et la joie !

PUREBRED CLASS

Maritime YCSA Classic

CHAMPION PUREBRED HEIFER CALF Connor Morse with CDM Ms Classy 7C RESERVE CHAMPION PUREBRED HEIFER CALF Dereck Sanderson with Spud-Island Sandi 15C CHAMPION PUREBRED YEARLING FEMALE Jake Matheson with BJM Queen Lolynda 4B RESERVE CHAMPION PUREBRED YEARLING FEMALE Tricia Sanderson with Spud-Island Sandi 61B

September 25 - 27, 2015

JUNIOR CHAMPION Ray Parsons

RESERVE CHAMPION PUREBRED BULL CALF Melanie DeLong with Li’l Ker Crossfire 3C

RESERVE JUNIOR CHAMPION Jake Matheson

CHAMPION PUREBRED BRED & OWNED Alex Parsons with Windy Knoll Beetle Juice 1B RESERVE CHAMPION PUREBRED BRED & OWNED Connor Morse with DJ’s Ms Meant 2B

RESERVE CHAMPION JUNIOR PUREBRED FEMALE Tricia Sanderson with Spud-Island Sandi 61B

RESERVE CHAMPION COMMERCIAL HEIFER CALF Lauren Smith with LMS Cobey 9C

RESERVE CHAMPION PUREBRED MATURE FEMALE Ray Parsons with Windy Knoll Willamina 3W

RESERVE INTERMEDIATE CHAMPION Allison Booth RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION PUREBRED FEMALE Jake Matheson with BJM Queen Lolynda 4B

CHAMPION COMMERCIAL YEARLING FEMALE Melanie DeLong with Mel’s Burnt Marshmallow

AGGREGATE OVERALL TOP NOVICE Lance Hiltz GRAND CHAMPION PUREBRED BULL Alex Parsons with WKF Cleatus 10C

OVERALL TOP SENIOR Connor Morse CHAMPION OVERALL AGGREGATE Melanie DeLong

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION PUREBRED BULL Melanie DeLong with Li’l Ker Crossfire 3C

SHOWMANSHIP GRAND CHAMPION PUREBRED FEMALE Alex Parsons with Windy Knoll Xia 39X

OVERALL TOP JUNIOR Jake Matheson OVERALL TOP INTERMEDIATE Melanie DeLong

CHAMPIONS

RESERVE CHAMPION MATURE PUREBRED FEMALE Connor Morse with CDM Ms Classy Lady 680 13A

RESERVE SENIOR CHAMPION Tricia Sanderson

RESERVE OVERALL CHAMPION Tricia Sanderson

RESERVE CHAMPION COMMERCIAL YEARLING FEMALE Patrick Holland with Miz Biz

CHAMPION MATURE PUREBRED FEMALE Alex Parsons with Windy Knoll Xia 39X

SENIOR CHAMPION Patrick Holland

OVERALL CHAMPION Patrick Holland

COMMERCIAL CLASS CHAMPION COMMERCIAL HEIFER CALF Connor Morse with DJ’s Ms Cleopatra 13C

CHAMPION PUREBRED MATURE FEMALE Alex Parsons with Windy Knoll Xia 39X

INTERMEDIATE CHAMPION Melanie DeLong

BRED & OWNED CLASS

CHAMPION JUNIOR PUREBRED FEMALE Jake Matheson with BJM Queen Lolynda 4B

CHAMPION TWO YEAR OLD PUREBRED FEMALE Connor Morse with CDM Ms Classy Lady 680 13A

Windsor, NS

CHAMPION PUREBRED BULL CALF Alex Parsons with WKF Cleatus 10C

NOVICE CHAMPION Lance Hiltz

RESERVE CHAMPION OVERALL AGGREGATE Connor Morse

JUDGES Dale MacPhee JC Siddall Julie Mutch & Derek Weeks

At the 2014 National YCS Classic in Manitoba, Wyatt and myself were awarded the opportunity to attend the 2015 AJSA Summit in Bozeman, Montana on August 3-6th. The theme of this year’s Summit was “Speak Out, Say It Loud,” with focus on Beef Advocacy. The goal was to teach us how to become stronger ambassadors for the agricultural industry. On day one we went to the old and new ASA Headquarters for tours. We learnt a lot about the ASA and how ‘The Register’ became their main publication for breeders; much like our Simmental Country. The night ended with the Keynote Speaker. He was an engaging speaker and a highlight for me on this trip! It was a very interactive presentation where we learnt a lot about not only ourselves but the other participants as well, and how our communication impacts how successful (or unsuccessful) our point will be at getting across to the person we are talking with. Day two started with two speakers; Basic Genetics & Animal Breeding, and Beef Advocacy & Social media. The second session encouraged us to be a constant voice for the agricultural industry against myths presented by animal rights organizations about our industry and way of life. We then had afternoon tours of the Billings Livestock Commission, Origen, and Hayes Ranch. The final day started with a tour of the Yellowstone National Park, whitewater rafting in the afternoon, then to Montana State University to learn about their agricultural programs and had our final beef advocacy session. The Summit was an unbelievable experience! The networking and friendships that came out of the Summit and the AJSA across the United States is truly amazing. It was truly a great honor to receive this award and be given the opportunity to represent the YCSA at the 2015 AJSA Summit. - Sara Van Sickle, Mayerthorpe, AB The trip to Summit 2015 this year was certainly one to remember. We arrived at Bozeman, Montana and were immediately on the bus to visit ASA headquarters, where we learned about the history and achievements of the Simmental breed. Throughout the next few days we visited different cattle operations and businesses along with an exciting visit to ORIgen. The day before we left was the day we visited Yellowstone National Park. I was made speechless at the natural wonders of geysers and hot springs. Next was white water rafting where we got to have some fun and see some great views at the same time. We headed back to Bozeman to have our wind up at Montana State University. In closing I need to thank the CSA and ASA for making this trip possible, it was a trip of a lifetime where I met new friends and contacts from across the States that I intend to keep in touch with. Finally, I would also like to thank the AJSA for the amazing hospitality. - Wyatt Millar, Grandora, SK

Amelioration de la Race Le point sur les pratiques émergentes dans l’élevage bovin Amber Dobson1, Dawn Trautman1 & John Crowley1,2 1 Livestock Gentec, University of Alberta - 2 Canadian Beef Breeds Council

our les éleveurs, la technologie associée à la génomique favorise une amélioration de l’efficacité de production et de leur compétitivité, en leur fournissant des informations appuyant leurs efforts de sélection vers des sujets ayant une croissance plus rapide, une ingestion alimentaire plus basse, une meilleure santé, fertilité et une bonne qualité de carcasse, ainsi que des coûts d’opération plus faibles. En réalité, il est aussi possible d’améliorer ces caractères en utilisant les EPD, toutefois avec la génomique on améliore la précision des prévisions du mérite génétique. Le progrès génétique est cumulatif et permanent lorsqu’un programme d’élevage est bien effectué, ce qui veut dire qu’on en retire des bénéfices annuellement. En raison d’une diminution des coûts des analyses génotypiques, la sélection génomique gagne en popularité, de telle sorte que la base de données “phénotype / génotype” devient plus importante, rendant ainsi la sélection génomique davantage à la portée des éleveurs Simmental. Au niveau de l’industrie, la génomique contribuera à une amélioration du degré de compétitivité, en favorisant une production de viande salubre et nutritive destinée aux consommateurs. La génomique peut nous permettre d’augmenter la précision de sélection envers des animaux plus dociles, qui croissent plus rapidement, sont plus résistants aux maladies et émettent moins de méthane. Ces qualités, de même que notre aptitude à obtenir une traçabilité complète pour les produits de viande bovine, font en sorte que cela nous fournit l’opportunité d’offrir aux consommateurs des produits de viande de qualité, salubres et nutritifs, et en respect avec les pratiques d’agriculture durable. Élevage Tel qu’indiqué précédemment, l’ajout d’informations génotypiques (soit avec des panels de 50K, de basse densité ou de haute densité) à une évaluation génétique permet d’accroître de manière significative la précision et la valeur des EPD considérés pour la sélection des meilleurs sujets; ces EPD sont appelés des EPD améliorés par la génomique (EPDGE). Si une évaluation génétique régulière n’est pas disponible, des valeurs d’élevage génotypiques, appelées des valeurs d’élevage moléculaires (VEM, la terminologie peut varier) peuvent être générées afin de classer les animaux sur la base de leur mérite génétique pour une série de caractères. Plus tôt cette année, l’Association Simmental du Canada a adopté un nouveau règlement demandant que les tous les taureaux et les vaches donneuses d’embryons aient une analyse génotypique avec un panel de 50 K. Cette mesure a été instaurée afin que la base de données génotypique de la race Simmental croisse régulièrement, permettant ainsi d’améliorer encore davantage la précision des prédictions génétiques chez les prochaines générations de sujets, cela en parallèle avec l’analyse génotypique initiale d’un animal et la production d’un EPD-GE alors que l’animal est encore jeune. D’autres tests effectués à partir de l’ADN peuvent nous permettre de détecter des défauts génétiques présents dans certaines populations d’animaux. Qualité de carcasse En ce moment, il y a deux projets de recherche en cours concernant la qualité des carcasses. Premièrement, les chercheurs de la Station de recherche d’Agriculture et agroalimentaire Canada à Lacombe en Alberta s’affairent à développer une alternative à la dissection complète des carcasses pour des fins de classement des carcasses. La technologie actuellement testée repose sur l’absorptiométrie biphotonique (« DEXA »), laquelle consiste à scanner la carcasse pour obtenir des informations sur l’oeil-de-longe et le gras dorsal, le tout avec des méthodes beaucoup moins invasives et plus rapides. On développera alors des algorithmes à partir des

données des sujets de projets de recherche, puis on validera le tout avec des données de carcasse provenant d’abattoirs commerciaux. Ces nouvelles mesures, lorsqu’on parle d’améliorer la qualité des carcasses, peuvent être employées afin de générer des données plus précises à être incorporées aux évaluations génétiques. De tels résultats de recherche peuvent être complétés par une deuxième initiative intéressante; le réseau ‘Canadian Meat Education and Training Network (MEaTnet)’. Ce nouveau réseau, le ‘MEaTnet’, est en fait un partenariat financé par le CRSNG entre l’Université de l’Alberta, l’Université Laval, l’Université de la Saskatchewan et l’Université de Guelph. L’objectif visé par le réseau ‘MEaTnet’ est de former au cours des six prochaines années un total de cinquante étudiants gradués à la maîtrise et au doctorat, lesquels possèderont les habiletés professionnelles, l’expérience de la recherche et les connaissances techniques essentielles à la compréhension et aux efforts d’amélioration de l’industrie des viandes. L’augmentation du nombre de mangeurs de viande n’est pas un mythe, car on anticipe que la demande globale pour les protéines alimentaires devrait doubler dans le futur. En étant proactif et en adoptant des pratiques innovantes, les producteurs de bovins devraient se trouver en bonne position pour rencontrer cette demande. En formant ainsi du personnel hautement qualifié, l’industrie bovine canadienne sera à la hauteur des exigences du marché global des viandes. Les éleveurs Simmental du Canada ont une belle opportunité et ils doivent capitaliser sur le développement d’une marque de viande de qualité, s’ils veulent jouir d’une bonne position dans ce marché global. Efficacité de production Plus récemment, l’emploi de facteurs de croissance et d’hormones en production bovine a fait les manchettes et a attire l’attention des consommateurs. Cela constitue un défi important pour les producteurs bovins du Canada, lesquels sont à la recherche d’un équilibre entre l’efficacité de production (moins d’aliments requis par rapport à la viande produite), pouvant être obtenue grâce à l’emploi des facteurs de croissance, versus la demande des consommateurs et leurs attitudes. Une solution à ce problème pourrait reposer sur une utilisation de génétiques reconnues pour la croissance, lesquelles pourraient nous permettre de ne pas avoir recours aux implants. Si nous pouvions identifier les animaux (en utilisant les EPD-GE) pour leurs qualités supérieures de carcasse, leur efficacité alimentaire et leur croissance élevée, nous pourrions alors obtenir dans notre programme d’élevage les mêmes effets obtenus avec les facteurs de croissance, mais en utilisant seulement les meilleurs taureaux. L’industrie bovine fait face à des défis complexes, faisant en sorte que le message n’est pas toujours entendu clairement à l’effet que de nouvelles technologies sont mises en place. Les investissements devraient rapporter des dividendes, car la technologie de la génomique a fait la preuve qu’elle permet d’accroître la productivité et la rentabilité au sein d’autres secteurs, en particulier dans l’industrie laitière. Alors, ‘où en est le boeuf ?’ C’est ici, dans nos propres pâturages; voici de nouvelles solutions à de vieux problèmes, c’est Canadien, c’est un effort conjoint, et cela changera l’industrie. Voici venu le temps d’endosser ces pratiques innovantes et les technologies disponibles, afin de créer des solutions face aux défis environnementaux, de lutter contre les maladies et d’assurer un approvisionnement d’aliments nutritifs. Quelles données et échantillons recueillis en ce moment aura un effet sur les générations futures ? Nous devons réfléchir à tous ces caractères qui seront utiles pour les prochaines générations de propriétaires de bovins et pour nourrir toutes ces bouches affamées dans le monde, tout en demeurant toujours avec un pas d’avance. 45

here has already been lots written on the newly released code of practice in 2013 (the last one was in 1991 or 22 years prior) that has been in the works for the last several years. As a beef producer, transporter, marketer, nutritionist, veterinarian or anyone involved with the cattle industry it is most definitely worth a read. I know at first glance it may seem long (56 pages), but there is something in the document for everyone and the table of contents makes it easy to follow and to find a specific section. I as a veterinarian learned a few new things and it will get you thinking of others. The document looks into the future, and while there are some hard fast rules coming regarding castrating and dehorning especially, they are all for the greater good, and will benefit cattle production both from an economic and animal welfare issue, well into the future. This article will briefly discuss some of the most important points and others of interest to me but as I mentioned it is worth printing a copy and having it on the coffee table or other prominent reading place for everyone to peruse. The beef code is a guideline for most common modalities in raising cattle such as describing the basic freedoms of cattle, care and handling, transportation, common veterinary procedures as well as when to make the decision to euthanize. There is no question, every cattleman regardless of how much experience they have, can learn something from this book. They give some numbers which are cutoffs for health such as with heat stress a humidity index above 740 is serious and ammonia levels inside a barn above 25ppm are hazardous. Even more guideline numbers would have been useful since this will become a reference source for producers. Regarding animal welfare, prod usage of less then 5 % which is a number I have seen quoted by Dr. Temple Grandin many times. If you need to prod more than one animal every twenty that goes through, or if there is too much vocalization, there is something wrong with your handling facility, or you are abusing the prod. Use the prod as the last resort only after other methods have been tried. We often use flags paddles or rattles more when handling cattle. I have often said that in good handling facilities, the biggest problem is keeping cattle split up, as they want to follow the leader. Provide traction to minimize cattle trips slips and falls. If your facility is pretty good you have more time and can make slight changes or monitor where there are areas of improvement. When processing we monitor slips out of the chute and sometimes it is simply a matter of having dried manure or sand available to throw down in front of the chute. Eating snow is fine for water as long as when not lactating, newly weaned calves and I would also include when cows are in their third trimester as well. Be aware of stray voltage if cattle are reluctant to drink. Restrict cattle from areas of thin ice. Common sense should prevail but every year we hear of a few dugout deaths from cattle piling up on the ice and it giving way. These catastrophes usually involve several head. Regarding more general health conditions. Establish an ongoing VCPR (Veterinary Client Patient Relationship) with your vet so he/she can advise on treatment, animal welfare issues, vaccination protocols, and many other things which keep your herd healthy and productive. Prevention of anything is far better than treatment. With lame cattle a good rule to follow

is, if the initial treatment fails, reassess, or seek... veterinary advice. There are many causes of lameness rather than just footrot. If laminitis from grain overload occurs, seek vet advice or discuss with your nutritionist on how best to deal with this long term, and how to prevent other cases in the future. A section on respiratory disease and how to prevent should be read by all. It states reportable diseases, your vet will know which ones these are, but having more contact numbers of those involved with this in the Government, would be good to have in this document as they have the expertise with these diseases. A section on calving with hints like keeping the calving area clean and empty until calving, as well as timelines, when to intervene and having c-sections (although rare), conducted by a qualified veterinarian. The Beef Code of practice is also full of very good appendix’s such as “when to help a cow calving” which has more excellent recommendations complete with timelines. Another appendix is one on condition scoring. For biosecurity reasons avoid using dairy cow colostrum and only use colostrum from on farm or the good commercial colostrums which are out there. In the future timelines such as January 1, 2016 you will need pain control when dehorning after the horn bud is attached or when castrating bulls greater than 9 months of age. Animal welfare will increase but pain control will allow your cattle to grow and do better so the economic cost of the pain control products will be returned to you many fold. Many of you Simmental purebred breeders are in this boat with having to castrate the yearling bulls which don’t make the semen cut. You will find antiinflammatory drugs are required but the cattle will do much better with them. Everyone should go over the unacceptable euthanasia methods and vets or producers should tranquilize more fractious animals for their sakes and your sake as it makes any procedure easier. For everyone in cattle production, please give the beef code of practice a read, and keep it around as a reference source, or training document. There are a number of contact numbers such as producer groups; Cattlemen’s Association as well as the animal care groups across the provinces. It should be noted that this document was under the direction of the National Farm Animal Care Council with lots of input from the Provincial Animal Care Bodies together with different volunteer consultants. A very objective group in my opinion. Whether a producer in BC to the Maritimes, experienced or novice there is something to be gleaned from this document. It will make us all better cattlemen or cattlewomen and productivity should improve while still addressing animal welfare concerns. Using the gems you glean from this document and sharing it with your neighbors and the public will serve us now and into the future. Hopefully this document will undergo a slight review every five years so changes can be made on an ongoing basis. We don’t want to wait another 22 years for the next code of practice. For access to the hard copy or electronic version go to either the CCA website at www.cattle.ca or the NFAC website www. nfacc.ca and tell all your fellow producers. Knowing we have this greatly increases the profile and perception of the cattle industry. Every coffee table should have a copy of the beef code of practice on it. Give it a read if you get the chance.

Member Announcements CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to parents Darnell Fornwald and Jessica Scheer on their new baby Leelynn Grace Fornwald, born on October 7, 2015 weighing 7 lbs. 6 ounces.

Jordan and Katie Deeg of Deeg Simmentals are thrilled to announce to arrival of Brynn Mackenzie Deeg, born September 17, 2015 weighing 7 lbs. 3 ounces.

Congratulations to Dustin Stewart and Jennilee Bernier, of Rainbow River Simmentals, for tying the knot on Sunday, October 11, 2015 at Hecla Island.

Chad and Shelley Smith of Clearwater Simmentals, Olds, AB. are thrilled to announce the safe arrival of Clara Marian Hazel. Clara was born on October 5, 2015 at 5:15 a.m. weighing 7 lbs. 13 ounces.

Rob and Katelyn Godfrey are thrilled to announce the arrival of Addison Deborah Godfrey. Born September 19 in Charlottetown, she weighed a healthy 7 lbs. 12 ounces. Grandparents Blair and Debbie Tweedy and Don and June Godfrey are very excited and are can’t wait to help her train her first Simmental calf!

JANSEN, Theodore (Ted) June 21, 1929 - September 21, 2015 Ted took his last flight on Monday, September 21, 2015! He was born at Portreeve, Saskatchewan. He is survived by his wife Enid Jansen (nee Blakey) and they recently celebrated their 63rd wedding Anniversary. He is also survived by his sister, Eva Dykeman of Tofield, AB. He was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Elva Jansen and brother Howard Jansen. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. Ted was raised and grew up on a mixed farm in the Portreeve area, and moved to Alberta in 1949 to work on oil rigs, at which time he met Enid and they were later married in 1952. While drilling for an oil company in the Pincher Creek area in 1954, Ted got his private pilots license. He then bought an air plane and got his commercial license, single and twin engine and night rating. In 1956 Ted went to Lewis College of Science and Technology at Lockport, Illinois, where he obtained his helicopters license. In 1957, Ted went to New Zealand and flew helicopters doing agricultural work. He then returned to Calgary in 1959 and flew for Spartan Helicopters. In 1961, Alpine Helicopters was formed where Ted had 50% ownership. In the early 70’s, Ted got involved with Gelbvieh cattle and in 1996 was part of the group that imported the first Lowline Cattle in Canada. Ted was a founding member of the Stockmens Memorial Foundation. He started volunteering with the Calgary Stampede in 1975. He was a great supporter of the International Youth livestock and the OH school program. For several years Ted was an Alberta representative on the National Research Council of Canada on Agricultural and Forestry Aviation. He also volunteered on many other Provincial and Federal Associations. Our family would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to the many Doctors and their staffs for wonderful care throughout Ted’s illnesses and also our appreciation to the staff at Lake Bonavista Village during Ted and Enids’ stay there, and most recently our appreciation of the great kindness and care at Hillcrest Extendicare where they were living at the time of Ted’s passing.

IPE Armstrong GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

GRAND CHAMPION BULL

September 2-6, 2015 - Armstrong, BC Judge: Tim Massey, AB

BF SPECIAL CONSENSUS

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BULL

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

S: SS/PRS High Voltage 244X Exhibited By: Poplar Meadow Angus, Houston, BC

ROCK STAR CAPONE 5C

CHUB’S SUGAR RUSH 9B

S: MR TR Hammer 308A ET Exhibited By: Rock Star Cattle, D Townsend, Sylvan Lake, AB

S: Andi Black Ice 2Y Exhibited By: Rock Star Cattle, D Townsend, Sylvan Lake, AB

Olds Fall Classic GRAND CHAMPION BULL

Friday, October 3, 2015 - Olds, AB Judge: Todd Bygrove, SK

GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

SIMMENTAL SHOW RESULTS

RF INTENSE 359A

S: Wheatland Stout 930W Exhibited By: Rock Star Cattle, D Townsend, Sylvan Lake, AB

SKORS MS OLIVIA 32A

RF THROTTLED 311A

LFE BS SHEILA 82A

Sire: 3D BLK Full Throttle 483X Exhibited by: Outlaw Cattle Co, Hussar, AB

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BULL

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

Sire: 3D BLK Full Throttle 483X Exhibited by: Nolara Farms, Mayerthorpe, AB

Sire: LFE The Dark Night 350U Exhibited by Mader Ranches, Rust Mountain View Ranch & Canadian Donors, Carstairs, AB

ULTRA CAPTAIN AVENGER 3C

Sire: SVS Captain Morgan 11Z Exhibited by: Ultra Livestock, Carstairs, AB

Heritage Classic GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

GRAND CHAMPION BULL

September 25, 2015 - Windsor NS Judge: Lance Leachman, SK

JO-DREEN CUDDLES

WINDY KNOLL XIA 39X

S: Erixon Lad 38Y Exhibited By: Jo-Dreen Farm, Stoney Creek, NB

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BULL

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

S: TNT Gunner N208 Exhibited By: Windy Knoll Farm, Kingston, NS

MFS TRENDSETTER 1B

S: TNT Gunner N208 Exhibited BY: Mutch Farms, Cornwall, PEI

LI’L KER CROSSFIRE 3C

S: MR HOC Broker Exhibited By: Li’l Ker Cattle Co., Kingston, NS

Heritage Classic 2015 Supreme Champions RESERVE SUPREME CHAMPION FEMALE

MFS TRENDSETTER 1B

S: TNT Gunner N208 Exhibited BY: Mutch Farms, Cornwall, PEI

RESERVE SUPREME CHAMPION BULL

JO-DREEN CUDDLES

S: Erixon Lad 38Y Exhibited By: Jo-Dreen Farm, Stoney Creek, NB

2015 National Simmental Show Expo Boeuf Judge: Marlin LeBlanc, SK

GRAND CHAMPION BULL

GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

October 10, 2015 - Victoriaville, QC

MFS WILLOW 4A

CDM BROKER BOONDOCK 18B

S: TNT Gunner N208 Exhibited BY: Mutch Farms, Vernon, PEI

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION BULL

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION FEMALE

S: MR HOC Broker Exhibited By: Greyledge Simmentals, Cookshire, QC

GREYLEDGE VOODOO

GREYLEDGE BLACK CAMMO

S: RC Club King 040R Exhibited By: Ferme Larose, De – Clifton, QC

S: Wheatland Bull 680S Exhibited By: Todd Simmentals, Waterloo, QC

Expo Boeuf 2015 Supreme Champions

SUPREME CHAMPION FEMALE

RESERVE SUPREME CHAMPION BULL

MFS WILLOW 4A

CDM BROKER BOONDOCK 18B

S: TNT Gunner N208 Exhibited BY: Mutch Farms, Cornwall, PEI

S: MR HOC Broker Exhibited By: Greyledge Simmentals, Cookshire, QC

RESERVE SUPREME CHAMPION FEMALE GREYLEDGE VOODOO

S: RC Club King 040R Exhibited By: Ferme Larose, De – Clifton, QC

Join us for SBIC 2016! January 20 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 22, 2016 at the newly renovated

Saskatoon Inn & Conference Centre

DECISION MAKING

consumer trends

FEED LOT

POLICY scholarship

TRADE SHOW Industry meetings

SHARING

BRANDING Guest speakers

PARTNERSHIPS

If you are part of the beef industry, you should be part of

Conference, trade show, industry meetings, business networking and more.

For more information and to register visit www.saskbeefconference.com 51

Simmeron Ranch Martin Skaret 1-56021 RGE. RD. 261 Sturgeon County Alberta, T8R 0V9 Ph: 780-939-3248 Cell: 780 913 7963 mskaret@xplornet.com www.simmeronranch.ca

BARRY & BRENDA LABATTE Box 72 Gladmar, Sask. S0C 1A0 www.labattesimmentals.com Ph: (306)969-4820 labatte.simm@sasktel.net Cell: (306) 815-7900

Dave and Krista Erixon 306-270-2893

erixonsimmentals@sasktel.net www.erixonsimmentals.com Box 156 Clavet, SK S0K 0Y0 Red & Black Simmentals

Jim (306) 928-4636 Dave (306) 483-8660

Lee (306) 928-4820 Fax (306) 928-2143 The Stamp Of Quality Simmental Genetics For Over 40 Years

23401 Big Bend Rd. Newbury, ON N0L 1Z0 Ron & Linda 519.695.6124 Mike & Melissa 226.268.0520

Insurance

Photographers

Auctioneer/Ringman

Industry Events

Trucking

Semen/Embryos

Marketing

BLI Bussiness Card Double 2015_Layout 1 2015-07

Box 1409 Crossfield, AB T0M 0S0 Office: 403.946.4999 Brian Bouchard: 403.813.7999 Darnell Fornwald: 403-795-8030 Chad Lorenz: 403.896.9585 Doug Domolewski: 403.635.1840 Email: info@bouchardlivestock.com

e Full Servic ting arke Livestock M - Sale Managment - Consulting - Order Buying - International Export Approved Semen & Embryo Storage Facility

Brian

Darnell

Chad

WWW.BOUCHARDLIVESTOCK.COM

Semen/Embryos

#13, 4101 19th St. N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 P: (403) 250-7979 • F: (403) 250-5121 www.simmental.com • E: cansim@simmental.com CSA Executive

CSA Directors

President Lacey Fisher Amherst, NS P: (902) 661-0766 C: (902) 664-6206 timberwoodfarms@ seasidehighspeed.com

Maureen Mappin-Smith Byemoor, AB P: (403) 579-2175 C: (403) 321-0501 silversmithcattle@yahoo.com

First Vice-President David Milliner Dundalk, ON P: (519) 923-9188 C: (519) 375-0122 dgmilliner@everus.ca Second Vice-President Lee McMillen Carievale, SK P: (306) 928-4820 C: (306) 483-8067 mrbulls@gmail.com

Provincial Associations

British Columbia President Lorne Webster Abbotsford, BC P/F: (604) 823-6797 Secretary Kelly Ashworth Jan Wisse Oungre, SK P: (604) 794-3684 P: (306) 456-2749 Alberta C: (306) 861-2013 President jashworth@sasktel.net Kyle Lewis Spruce Grove, AB Blair McRae P: (780) 220-9188 Brandon, MB kyle@lewisfarms.ca P: (204) 728-3058 C: (204) 729-5439 Office Contact marmac@inetlink.ca Heather Saucier Airdrie, AB Garth Rancier P: (403) 861-6352 Killam, AB F: (403) 948-2059 P: (780) 385-2425 saucierh@telus.net C: (780) 385-5313 Promotion / Fieldperson rancierfarms@xplornet.ca Chuck Groeneveld Dan Skeels High River, AB Rimbey, AB P: (403) 938-7843 P: (403) 843-4756 barnboss@telus.net C: (403) 783-1217 Saskatchewan anchordranch@albertahighspeed.net President Ryan Lundberg Francis Gagnon Eastend, SK Cheneville, QC P: (306) 295-7999 P: (819) 428-3502 ryan_lundberg2@hotmail.com C: (514) 975-3722 francis_gagnon0407@hotmail.com Secretary Carolyn McCormack P: (306) 697-2945 sasksimmental@yourlink.ca

Manitoba President Everett Olson Rapid City, MB P: (204) 826-2643 everettolson@mymts.com Secretary Donalee Jones P: (204) 529-2444 Email: donalee@midcan.com Ontario President Tina Hiddink Bloomfield, ON P: (613) 399-3239 wildoak@xplornet.ca Quebec Président Sylvain Lambert La Presentation, PQ P: (450) 796-5914 Secretaire Sandra Berthiaume Saint-Garmain, QC P/F (819) 395-4453 sandra.berthiaume@sympatico.ca Maritimes President Don Godfrey Meadow Bank, PEI P: (902) 566-3613 Secretary Jennie Mutch P: (902) 388-1613 jenniemutch@gmail.com

CSA Staff General Manager Bruce Holmquist C: (403) 988-8676 bholmquist@simmental.com Office Manager Barb Judd P: (403) 250-7979 bjudd@simmental.com Industry & Member Services Meghan Black P: (506) 324-4825 mblack@simmental.com Processing Department Perry Welygan pwelygan@simmental.com Beth Rankin brankin@simmental.com Receptionist & Member Services Devra Leavitt reception@simmental.com CSA Programs Coordinator Carla Schmitt P: (306) 221-7950 cschmitt@simmental.com

Table of Contents

Publication Information................................. 2

From The Gatepost (French)..........................42

From The Gatepost........................................11

Maritime YCSA Show Results......................43

Breed Improvement.......................................15

YCSA News...................................................44

From the Director’s Chair..............................20

Breed Improvement (French).........................45

Women in Simmental Country.......................22

Vet’s Advice...................................................46

A Beneficial Alliance.....................................28

Member Announcements...............................47

Alberta News.................................................37

Simmental Show Results...............................48

Saskatchewan News.......................................38

Canadian Simmental Association Contacts...64

Manitoba News..............................................39

Advertisers Index...........................................65

Ontario News.................................................40

What’s Happening..........................................66

Quebec News.................................................41

Did You Know...............................................68

ABC Cattle Company..................................... 57 Adair Ranch.................................................... 53 Afri-Can Simmentals....................................... 59 Alameda Agencies Ltd.................................... 62 Alliance Simmental Farms.............................. 59 Alta Genetics.................................................. 63 Anchor D Ranch............................................. 53 Applecross...................................................... 53 Ashworth Farm & Ranch Ltd.......................... 57 Aumack Simmentals....................................... 57 Bar 5 Farms.............................................. 16, 59 Bar CL Livestock............................................ 53 Beagle Simmentals......................................... 53 Beechinor Bros. Simmentals.......................... 53 Big Rock Simmentals..................................... 53 Black River Farms.......................................... 59 BlackSand Cattle Company............................ 59 Blushrose Simmental Farm............................ 57 Bohrson Marketing Services......... 12, 13, 38, 63 Bonchuk Farms.......................................... 8, 59 Bouchard Livestock International....................... ............................................. 3, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 63 Bova-Tech Ltd................................................. 63 Bow Valley Genetics....................................... 63 BS Ranch....................................................... 53 Canadian Bull Congress................................. 62 Canadian Cattlemen....................................... 62 Carey, Brent.................................................... 62 Casaloma Cattle Company............................. 57 Circle 3 Genetics............................................ 59 Circle G simmentals & Angus......................... 53 City View Simmentals..................................... 57 Clearwater Simmentals.................................. 53 Colt Cattle Co................................................... 6 Crimson Tide Fleckvieh.................................. 60 Crossroad Farms............................................ 57 Czech-Mate Livestock.................................... 53 Davis-Rairdan Embryo Transplants Ltd.......... 63 Deeg Simmental............................................. 53 Destiny Simmentals........................................ 60 Diamond T Simmentals.................................. 54 Don Heggie Simmentals................................. 54 Donovandale Simmentals............................... 60 Dora Lee Genetics.......................................... 60 Dorran Marketing Inc...................................... 62 Dorran, Steve................................................. 62 Double Bar D Farms............................... IFC, 57 Double G Simmentals..................................... 57 Downey Farms............................................... 59 Downhill Simmentals...................................... 36 DP Sales Management................................... 63 Dunc’s Cattle Co............................................. 60 Dwayann Simmentals..................................... 60 Eagle-Ridge Simmentals................................ 54 East Poplar Simmentals................................. 57 Edge, Dean..................................................... 62 EDN Simmentals............................................ 57 Elm Tree Farms.............................................. 60 Erixon Simmentals.......................................... 57 Fallen Timber Farms...................................... 53 Ferme Gagnon Farm................................ 25, 61 Ferme Saro Farm........................................... 61 Foley Simmentals........................................... 60 Genex Cooperative, Inc.................................. 63

GJR Simmentals............................................. 57 Grant Rolston Photography Ltd...................... 62 Gravandale Simmentals................................. 60 Grinalta Farms................................................ 54 H.S. Knill Company Limited............................ 62 Hairy Hill Cattle Co......................................... 54 Hallridge Simmentals...................................... 60 Hannah Simmentals........................... 14, 26, 54 Harvie Ranching............................................. 54 High Bluff Stock Farm..................................... 59 High Country Cattle Services......................... 54 Hi-Tech Farms................................................ 60 Hoegl Simmentals.......................................... 57 Indian River Cattle Co.................................... 60 Janzen Brogan Embryo Services Ltd............. 63 Janzen Ranches............................................. 54 Jetstream Livestock........................................ 60 JNR Farms..................................................... 54 Keato Meadow Simmentals............................ 54 Kin Kin Cattle Co............................................ 54 Kopp Farms.................................................... 59 Kuntz Simmental Farm................................... 57 LaBatte Simmentals................................. 18, 57 Lazy Bar-B Simmentals.................................. 57 Lazy S Ranch Inc........................................... 54 Lewis Farms............................................ BC, 54 Little Willow Creek Ranch............................... 58 Lobster Point Farms....................................... 61 Lone Stone Farms.......................................... 54 M & J Farms................................................... 59 M & R Cattle Co........................................ 14, 55 M & S Cattle Co................................................ 6 MacKenzie Cattle Company........................... 54 Mader Ranches........................................ 17, 54 Maple Key Farm............................................. 60 Mappin Simmentals........................................ 55 Mar Mac Farms.............................................. 59 Maronda Simmentals...................................... 10 Masterfeeds.................................................... 62 Maxwell Simmentals................................... 4, 55 McCormack Family Ranch............................. 58 MCG Simmentals........................................... 55 McIntosh Livestock......................................... 58 McManus Simmentals.................................... 59 McMillen Ranching Ltd................................... 58 Meadow Acres Farms............................... 18, 58 MI Simmentals.......................................... 27, 54 Mitchell Cattle Co........................................... 53 Muirhead Cattle Co......................................... 58 New Holland..................................................... 1 Nolara Farms.................................................. 55 North Creek Simmentals................................ 58 North Hill Simmentals..................................... 55 O Double E Simmentals................................. 55 O’Brien Farms................................................ 60 O’Grady Steel................................................. 62 Okotoks Fleckvieh Group......................... 27, 55 Oslanski Simmental Farms............................. 55 Parkhill Ranches............................................. 55 Parview Stock Farms................................ 27, 55 Pearson Simmentals...................................... 55 Pheasantdale Simmentals.............................. 58 Phillips Farms Simmentals............................. 61 Pine Creek Simmentals.................................. 55

Porter Ranches............................................... 55 Rainalta Simmentals & Charolais................... 55 Rancier Farms................................................ 55 RDG Simmentals............................................ 55 Red Rose Angus............................................. 58 Rendezvous Farms........................................ 59 Ricochet Stock Farms.................................... 27 River Point Cattle Co...................................... 60 Riverbank Farm.............................................. 59 Robb Farms.................................................... 58 Robson Farms................................................ 60 Rock Star Cattle Co........................................ 21 Rosebud Simmentals..................................... 55 Rust Mountain View Ranch............................ 61 SAJ Simmentals............................................. 58 Saskatchewan Beef Industry.......................... 51 Saugeen Acres............................................... 56 Schatz Simmentals......................................... 56 Simmeron Ranch...................................... 35, 56 Skeels, Dan.................................................... 62 Skor Simmentals............................................ 56 Southpaw Cattle Company............................. 56 Spring Creek Simmentals......................... 12, 58 Spring Lake Simmentals................................. 56 Starwest Farms.............................................. 53 Steen Agencies............................................... 62 Stewart Simmentals........................................ 61 Stock, Mark..................................................... 62 Stockmens Insurance..................................... 62 Stone Simmentals.......................................... 56 Stoughton Farms............................................ 58 Sullivan Simmentals....................................... 61 Sun Rise Simmentals..................................... 58 Sun Star Simmentals...................................... 56 Sunny Valley Simmentals............................... 58 Swan Lake Farms........................................... 58 Swantewitt Simmentals.................................. 56 T Bar C Cattle Company................................ 63 The Register................................................... 61 Timberlind Auctions........................................ 62 Todd Simmentals............................................ 61 Transcon Livestock Corp.................................... ....................................... IBC, 19, 27, 32, 33, 63 Trevor’s Cowpix.............................................. 62 Triple Rose Simmentals................................. 61 Tryon Simmentals........................................... 61 TSN Livestock................................................ 59 Twin Brae Simmentals.................................... 59 Twin Butte Simmentals................................... 56 Ty-D Livestock.................................................. 6 Tymarc Livestock............................................ 56 Vernon Properties Ltd..................................... 27 Virginia Ranch................................................ 56 W2 Farms....................................................... 58 Weldehaven Farms........................................ 61 Wells’ Crossing Cattle Company.................... 56 Westway Farms Ltd........................................ 56 Wild Oak Farms.............................................. 61 Windy Knoll Farm........................................... 61 WJ Simmentals............................................... 56 Wolfe Farms................................................... 56 Wolfe’s Fleckvieh............................................ 56 Wright’s ProRich Seeds.................................. 59 Xcel Livestock................................................. 61 XRC Simmentals...................................... 43, 58 65

What’s Happening November Nov. 1 Spring Evaluation Data Entry Deadline Nov. 5-8 Lloydminster Stockade Roundup Lloydminster, SK Nov. 6 Stockade Roundup Fall Fusion All-Breed Sale Lloydminster, SK Nov. 6-15 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Toronto, ON Nov. 6 Royal Elite All Breeds Sale Toronto, ON Nov. 10-15 Farmfair International Edmonton, AB Nov. 14 Pembina Triangle Simmental Association 35th Annual Sale Cypress River, MB Nov. 15 Central Invitational Simmental Sale Woodville, ON Nov. 18-21 Futures One Online Simmental Sale LiveAuctions.TV Nov. 19 Maronda Simmentals Complete Bred Female and Walking Herdsire Dispersal Olds, AB Nov. 19 Chittick Family Ranch 100% Online Fall Bred Female Production Sale DLMS Nov. 20 Jewels & Diamonds Simmental Production Sale Ponoka, AB Nov. 21 Western Harvest Simmental Female Sale Innisfail, AB Nov. 23-28 Canadian Western Agribition Regina, SK Nov. 25 45th Annual Agribition Simmental Sale Regina, SK Nov. 28 Marywood Classic Bull & Female Sale Listowel, ON Nov. 30 Harvest Hoedown Simmental Heifer Sale Neepawa, MB

December Dec. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 7 Dec. 7 Dec. 8 Dec. 10 Dec. 13 Dec. 14 Dec. 15 Dec. 15

Commercial Country January Issue Advertising Deadline Camrose Country Classic Camrose, AB Lonestone Farms Red Angus & Simmental Bred Heifer Dispersal Westlock, AB Wolfe Farms 11th Annual Bull & Female Production Sale Valleyview, AB The Source of Elite Simmental Genetics Sale Lloydminster, SK M&S Cattle Co Complete Purebred & Commercial Herd Dispersal Lloydminster, SK 37th Annual Keystone Konnection Simmental Sale Brandon, MB Transcon’s 38th Annual Simmsational Simmental Sale Moose Jaw, SK Mar Mac Farms New Generation Red & Black Angus, Simmental Female Sale Brandon, MB Shades of the Prairies Simmental Sale Brandon, MB 2016 Total Herd Enrollment (THE) Deadline Bonchuk Farms Fall Female Production Sale Virden, MB

Dec. 15 Dec. 18 Dec. 19 Dec. 19 Dec. 20 Dec. 20 Dec. 22 Dec. 31

22nd Annual Southern Alberta Simmental Round Up Bull & Female Sale Stavely, AB 4th Annual Friday Night Lights Simmental Sale Olds, AB Checkers Simmental Sale Ponoka, AB Transcon’s National Trust On Ice Chapter VIII Sale Red Deer, AB Transcon’s Fleckvieh Equation, Fullblood Simmental Sale Red Deer, AB Transcon’s Ultimate Red & Black XVIII Red Deer, AB Spring Creek “Golden Opportunity II” Female Sale Moosomin, SK New Years Resolution Frozen Genetics Sale Volume IV Saskatoon, SK

January Jan. 20-22 Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference, Saskatoon Saskatoon, SK Jan. 23-24 Camrose Bull Congress Camrose, AB Jan. 30 MC Quantock Canada’s Bull Sale Lloydminster, SK Jan. 30 Lazy S Bull Power Sale, Simmental/Angus Mayerthorpe, AB

February Feb. 6 Feb. 11 Feb. 12 Feb. 13 Feb. 14 Feb. 15 Feb. 16 Feb. 18 Feb. 19 Feb. 21 Feb. 22 Feb. 23 Feb. 24 Feb. 25 Feb. 26

Hill 70 Quantock Ranch “Barn Burnin” Bull Sale Lloydminster, SK Janzen Ranches 23rd Annual Simmental & Red Angus Bull Sale Rosemary, AB 17th Annual Genetic Edge Bull Sale Rimbey, AB Kenner Simmental 20th Annual Production Sale Leeds, ND Diamond M Ranch 4th Annual Bull Sale Estevan, SK Rendezvous Farms “Holiday Monday” Simmental Bull & Female Sale Ste. Rose du Lac, MB Jeans & Genetics Bull Sale Ponoka, AB M&J Farms Simmental and Angus Bull and Female Sale Russell, MB 27th Mader Ranches Bull & Female Sale Carstairs, AB Bonchuk Farms Annual Bull Sale Virden, MB 2nd Annual Select Opportunity Simmental Bull & Female Sale Olds, AB Rainalta & Guest Charolais & Simmental Sale Brooks, AB 10th Annual Crossroad Farms Bull Sale Shell Lake, SK 11th Annual Robb Hoegl Bull Sale Lloydminster, SK Lone Stone Farms Simmental & Red Angus Bull & Female Sale Westlock, AB

Feb. 27 Lewis Farms 31st Annual Bull Sale Spruce Grove, AB Feb. 29 14th Annual Muirhead Cattle Co. Simmental Bull Sale Shellbrook, SK Feb. 29 Simmental Summit 4th Annual Bull Sale Bentley, AB Feb. 29 Bar 5 Spring Spectacular Online Bull Production Sale

March March. 1 March. 2 March. 2 March. 4 March. 5 March. 5 March. 6 March. 7 March. 7 March. 7 March. 8 March. 9 March. 9 March. 9 March. 10 March. 10 March. 11 March. 12 March. 12 March. 12 March. 12 March. 13 March. 14 March. 14 March. 15

March. 16 March. 17 March. 18 March. 18 March. 18 March. 19 March. 19 March. 19 March. 21 March. 22 March. 24 March. 25 March. 28 March. 29 March. 29 March. 29

Transcon’s Premium Beef Simmental Bull Sale Neepawa, MB Get-A-Grip Angus and Simmental Bull & Female Sale Forestburg, AB Porter Ranches Bull Sale Stony Plain, AB Family Tradition Charolais & Simmental Bull Sale Dropmore, MB The Casaloma Classic Bull Sale Prince Albert, SK Ferme Gagnon Inc & Guests Annual Bull Sale Cheneville, PQ Proudly Western Bull Sale Whitewood, SK HWY 16 West Multibreed Bull Sale Mayerthorpe, AB Transcon’s Red Deer Simmental Bull Sale Red Deer, AB City View Simmentals & Icanhoe Angus 6th Annual Bull Sale Moose Jaw, SK Wheatland Cattle Co Annual Bull Sale Bienfait, SK Rust Mountain View Ranch “Ace in the Hole” Bull Sale Turtle Lake, ND Southwest Showcase Simmental Bull Sale Swift Current, SK MFR Genetic Destination Bull Sale Grenfell, SK 20th Annual U2 Ranch Bull & Female Sale High River, AB WLB Livestock’s 12th Annual Simmental & Polled Hereford Bull Sale Douglas, MB

Double Bar D “Best of Both Worlds” Bull Sale Grenfell, SK Erixon Simmentals Annual Bull & Female Sale Saskatoon, SK 21st Annual Herd Master Bull Sale Camrose, AB LaBatte Simmentals with Guests, Meadow Acres Farm 36th Annual Bull & Female Sale Moose Jaw, SK 22nd Annual McMillen Ranching Production Sale Carievale, SK MCG Simmentals & RACK Angus 9th Annual Bull Sale Stavely, AB R+ Simmentals Annual Bull Sale Estevan, SK Ashworth Farm & Ranch Simmental Sale Oungre, SK Bull Spectrum Simmental Sale Innisfail, AB 23rd Severtson Land & Cattle with guest Trendsetter Livestock Bull Sale Innisfail, AB 7th Annual Harvie Ranching Bull Sale Olds, AB Mar Mac Farms & Guests Bull Sale Brandon, MB April. 3 Best of the Breeds Bull Sale 26th Annual Sunny Valley Simmental Bull & Female Sale Yorkton, SK Saskatoon, SK April. 9 41st Annual Six Mile Ranch Bull Sale Skor Simmentals 14th Annual Red & Black Bull Sale Fir Mountain, SK Camrose, AB April. 11 Spirit of the North 13th Annual Westway & Deeg Bull Sale Spiritwood, SK Olds, AB April. 14 Southview Ranch Bull Sale Spring Creek’s “In Pursuit of Perfection” Bull Sale Ceylon, SK Moosomin, SK April. 28-8 Simmental Congress of the Americas Villahermosa Northern Classic Charolais & Simmental Sale Tabasco, Mexico Grand Prairie, AB 3rd Annual Next Generation Bull Sale Lloydminster, SK Swantewitt Simmentals Annual Bull & Heifer Sale Mayerthorpe, AB July 21-24 National Classic & CSA Convention 5th Annual Synergie Bull Sale Lloydminster, SK Ste-Sophie de Levrard, PQ Ranchlands Simmental Bull Sale Stavely, AB Rebels of the West Simmental Bull Sale Virden, MB Genetic Source Simmental Bull Sale Brandon, MB South Sask Simmental Sale Moose Jaw, SK Kuntz Stoughton McIntosh SAJ Bull Sale Lloydminster, SK

April

July

www.simmentalcountry.com 67

PERCENTAGE REQUIRED FOR PUREBRED STATUS Producers purchasing bulls from the United States or semen from American bulls should be aware of differences that exist between Canada and the United States in the percentage of Simmental required to qualify for purebred status. The Canadian Simmental Association requires a male to be 15/16 Simmental to reach purebred status while the American Simmental Association accepts males who are 7/8 Simmental or less by Canadian standards as purebred. As is regulated by the Federal government through the Animal Pedigree Act, it is the responsibility of the purchaser to ensure that these bulls meet the requirement of being 15/16 Simmental if they wish to register that animal in the Canadian Simmental herd book as a purebred. Please see our website under CSA Bylaws for our Upgrade Table (Determination of Simmental Fractions.)

MEMBER SUBMISSION DEADLINE DATES FOR FALL EVALUATION In order for data to be included in CSA Genetic Evaluations, it must be received by the CSA office by November 1st for the Spring Evaluation and by May 15th for the Fall Evaluation.

OFFICE HOLIDAY SCHEDULE The CSA office will be closed for the following 2015 holidays: Wednesday, November 11 – Remembrance Day Thursday-Friday, December 24-25 – Christmas Friday, January 1, 2016 – New Year’s Day

Tel: (403) 250-7979 Fax: (403) 250-5121 Email: cansim@simmental.com Website: www.simmental.com #13, 4101-19th St. NE., Calgary, AB T2E 7C4 68

N ove mbe r /De c e mbe r 2 0 1 5 Si mme ntal Countr y

November/December 2015

In This Issue:

A Beneficial Alliance Simmental Show Results YCSA Summit Leadership Report